NUPENG has slammed Dangote Fuel Scheme and called it a “Greek Gift” to crush competitors in Nigeria.
NaijaOnPoint Nigeria reports that the feud between the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) and the Dangote Group shows no signs of ending, as the union accused the conglomerate of using its so-called “free” fuel distribution initiative to undermine competitors and crush unionized workers.
In a statement on Friday, NUPENG National President Williams Akporeha condemned Dangote Group’s nationwide premium motor spirit distribution plan, calling it a “Greek gift” designed to deceive Nigerians and dominate the downstream sector.
Recall that the Dangote Group unveiled a new retail and ex-depot price template on Thursday, following its announcement on Monday, September 15, that it would roll out the fuel distribution scheme. The move led to a reduction in petrol retail prices across locations.
However, NUPENG warned that the initiative is far from benevolent. “Nigerians should not be deceived by the offer of free nationwide delivery of petroleum products to dispensing stations. It is a GREEK GIFT to ensure that other employers of petroleum are squeezed out,” the union said.
The union explained that Dangote’s approach forces truck drivers to be employed only through Dangote’s system, limiting opportunities for independent operators and effectively targeting NUPENG members and its PTD branch for marginalization.
Earlier, NUPENG had threatened fresh strike actions, alleging that Dangote Refinery reneged on previous resolutions. Despite these allegations, Dangote Refinery has dismissed the union’s claims that it is preventing its workers from unionizing.
Critics say the company’s tactics are less about market efficiency and more about monopolistic control, squeezing competitors and consolidating power within the oil sector.